The Best of Times, The Worst of Times

I’m having a really hard time determining what kind of a year it’s been. By all rights, 2019 was one of the worst years I’ve ever had (and there have been some doozies, let me tell you!). I’ve been through some major business troubles, a complicated office relocation, a couple of strange health issues and a serious amount of stress and worry. Most of this is self-inflicted and I’ve had a lot of talks with myself about how to right my wrongs, how to improve as a business owner and leader, and how to learn from my numerous mistakes. My self-improvement list has never been longer.

Yet on this last day of 2019 - a year full of turmoil and uncertainty and stress - I am strangely happy and optimistic. I have a staff of incredible people that I consider family. I occupy a new office that feels like a home. I work with some truly amazing people and companies. I am still excited beyond belief at the work that we do and how we can make it better. I still face a lot of challenges, but in this, my company’s 20th year, I feel very similar to the way I felt in year 1: equal parts excited, scared, hopeful and confident, with a touch of blind optimism thrown in for good measure. 

I’ve read a lot of words from people and companies that have experienced their best year ever or their greatest growth ever or most awards ever. I congratulate you if you are among that group and I wish you continued success in 2020. For those like me who did not have the best year ever, may you learn from your experience, reach out for support from those around you and double down on what got you here in the first place.

Happy New Year.